Greyeyes, David G. (1914-96)

A prominent Aboriginal athlete, soldier, and federal public servant, David Greyeyes was born on the Muskeg Lake Reserve on December 31, 1914. An outstanding serviceman with the Canadian Army during World War II, Greyeyes earned several decorations including the Greek Military Cross for his efforts in the Italian campaign. Upon returning home, Greyeyes farmed with his family on the Muskeg Lake Reserve and became its chief in 1958. Two years later, he began his fifteen-year career with the federal public service. He held a number of senior positions within the Department of Indian and Northern Affairs, and was the first Indian to be named regional director of the department. In 1977, Greyeyes was inducted into the Saskatchewan Sports Hall of Fame and was named a Member of the Order of Canada. He received the Saskatchewan Order of Merit in 1993.

Canadian Plains Research Center